TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Azya Thornton on Feb 25, 2026

Rep. Aftyn Behn, D-Nashville, is calling for a federal investigation into the Tennessee Department of Children's Services (DCS). According to The Tennessean, the move comes "after months of independent research, review of federal oversight records, and conversations with impacted families and whistleblowers." In a news release, Behn called for the U.S. Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division to investigate, saying DCS failed to comply with key federal requirements and create stability for children in its custody. Behn also alleges issues of segregation that affect children with disabilities. The agency has faced scrutiny after records showed hundreds of children slept in DCS offices in 2024 and 2025. A recent audit found persistent safety and oversight gaps. A DCS spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment. DCS Commissioner Margie Quin is scheduled to appear before a House committee this week.